Which is the Best Beach on the Amalfi Coast?

The Amalfi Coast is a haven of pastel houses, rustic villas, and sheer cliff faces that descend into glistening shallows. Many visitors flock to the area to check out the stunning sea views which can be admired from the smattering of beaches that line the coastline. 

But where to start? Some of you may be surprised to know that despite being a well-sought after beach destination, holiday-goers also seek villas with a pool in Amalfi to avoid the coasts somewhat rocky waters and pebbled beaches, which make these spots, not the most swimmer-friendly. But perhaps these people are looking in the wrong place? Don’t worry, you don’t need to start forking out more cash to pay for a place to cool down, there are many beaches on the Amalfi Coast that come in all shapes and sizes – pebbly, sandy, long, short, wide, and thin – there’s something for everyone. If anything, it’s hard to decide which beaches to visit! That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best beaches on the Amalfi Coast.

• 1. Marina Grande at Positano

  Positano is one of the most popular towns on the Amalfi Coast. Boasting a rich history that spans back thousands of years and a pretty landscape of pastel-painted houses perching on hilltops, it’s the perfect place to get a hearty dose of sea air. The main beach, Marina Grande, is the best-known beach in Positano. It’s the ideal spot for grabbing a drink, kicking back and relaxing, and taking a dip in the warm shallows against a backdrop of postcard-perfect houses. Despite being 184 metres long and 40 metres wide it can still get very busy during high season, so make sure you get to the beach early to secure a good spot! The plus side to this is that many beach resorts and restaurants populate the area making it easy to find refreshments and hire sun-lounges or a parasol if you need it.

• 2. Gavitella

  If you’re looking for a more hidden option where you can while away the hours with just the splashing of the waves to keep you company, try the beach at Gavitella instead. Found in the charming town of Praiano, in Vetitica Maggiore, it is one of the smallest beaches along the Amalfi coastline at just 30 metres long. Unlike many of the more popular beaches, it is made up mostly of pebbles and must be reached by climbing down a staircase that flanks the tall surrounding cliffs. Once on the beach, you can marvel at the stunning views of Positano and the islands of Li Galli and Capri in the distance.

• 3. Cavallo Morto

  For the more adventurous traveller, the beach at Cavallo Morto is your best bet. The cove is embedded in a sheer cliff that juts out over the water, making it reachable only by boat – how’s that for isolated bliss? Here, you’ll find a cosy beach made up of pristine white sands and crystal clear waters. Its sheltered location makes it the perfect place to try out snorkelling, where you can explore the colourful underwater world against a mesmerising backdrop of the rustic Amalfi coast.

• 4. Castiglione di Ravello

  When most people think of Ravello, a beach is probably the last thing to comes to mind. Situated 365 metres above the Tyrrhenian Sea, Ravello is a town of sheer cliffs, beautiful scenery and breathtaking views. So where does the beach come in? Well, unbeknownst to most, Ravello does have a small little beach located in the eponymous village, near Atrani. The picturesque gem is Ravello’s best-kept secret, only accessed by a few who know how. Reachable from SS163 Amalfitana, take the 200 step staircase down to the beach to enjoy this cosy, hidden gem. Only 100 metres long, the beach gets the best of the sun without the crowds, with the enclosed cliffs acting as a barrier against the wind.

• 5. Tuoro Vecchio

  This beach is one of the few sandy ones in Amalfi. It’s soft, non-pebbly sand is so special that the beach is privately owned by Hotel Cetus, but open to visitors for a fee. Situated close to the town of Cetara, Tuoro Vecchio can easily be accessed by car or bus, and you can also use the bar and restaurant facilities of the hotel while you’re there. It’s a beautiful spot with good sun exposure, fewer crowds and shade offered by the high cliffs in the afternoon. Being a private beach the area is kept immaculately clean with some of the best beach amenities around.

Checking out the beaches is one of the best things to do on the Amalfi Coast. And, with beaches for every occasion, there’s bound to be a bit of coastline that you love.

Related article: Can you swim in the Amalfi Coast?